Dolphin Program

About the Dolphins

Since 2005 a group of local volunteers have collected basic data on the wild Sotalia guianensis dolphin population in the estuary of the Suriname River. This dolphin program has been involved in the collection of basic data, training of volunteers and other stakeholders, and providing education and information to the general public.

The protection of the wild dolphin population through establishment and maintenance of a sound community monitoring programme that contributes to decision-making in respect to the estuary of the Suriname River.

Increase knowledge of wild dolphin habitat and populations in the Suriname River Estuary to support informed environmental decision-making

Engage local actors in education about dolphins and the ecosystems of the estuary

Improve the long term sustainability of the dolphin program

Engage in advocacy for the protection of wild dolphins in Suriname and the estuary as an ecosystem

Promote the conservation of the marine environment in general and promote sustainable livelihoods by employing an ecosystem-based approach

Increase knowledge sharing among key national and international dolphin and conservation actors

What is that?

The Dolphin Programme is a community monitoring programme which is executed every Sunday by a group of volunteers of the Green Heritage Fund Suriname. There is an opportunity for guests to join the research trips (maximum of 10 people per trip). The goal is to allow guests to experience the research first hand and secure funding for the research trips. The volunteers also provide information about the research, the dolphins and the estuary.

The research is conducted in the Suriname River Estuary between Leonsberg and Braamspunt. There are alternately moring and afternoon trips. For the morning trips, the boat departs from Leonsberg at 7:00 am and heads towards Braamspunt. Along the way research is conducted every time dolphins are spotted. After arrival at Braamspunt guests are invited to go for a walk on the beach and for a swim in the Atlantic Ocean at high tide. The boat heads back to Leonsberg at around 11:00 and arrives depending on the tide around 12:00. The afternoon trips are between 16:00 and 19:00. The research boat leaves Leonsberg at 16:00 and heads toward the river mouth in search for dolphins in the same manner as the morning trips. If time permits a stop is made at the Braamspunt beach.

How do I join a trip?

Please place your reservations on time by either calling our office at (597) 437533 or by mailing to info@greenfundsuriname.org . The payment for reservations must be made in advance at the Geertruidastraat 24 from 8 A.M till 4 P.M. We are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. The price per person is SRD 80 (€20,-); residents receive a discount of 25% , thus paying SRD 60,- per person.

What if I want to take my kids along?

Kids below the age of four are not allowed on the trips. The price for the kids is the same as for the adults. If you are taking kids along please let us know their age so we can make sure to have life vests in the right sizes available.

Do I need to take care of anything for the trip?

We do not serve drinks or snacks during the trip, so please make sure to take your own food and drinks with you. We also would like to note that their are no sanitary facilities available on the boat.

About GHFS

Our vision is to create a society that consciously works towards the continued improvement of their environment and the promotion of a green, clean and healthy Suriname.